the prostrations of recitation and gratitude. This is why they are performed facing the Kaaba. This has been the practice of Muslims since the time of their Prophet, and no one has been reported to have performed them facing away from the direction of prayer or without ablution, whereas this is done in the prostration of recitation. If the forgetfulness occurs in an obligatory prayer, one must perform these two prostrations on the ground, just as with the obligatory prayer itself; one may not perform them on a riding animal.

Furthermore, these two prostrations are obligatory, as indicated by numerous texts, and this is the position of most jurists. By contrast, the prostration of gratitude is not obligatory by consensus, and there is disagreement over whether it is recommended. There is also disagreement over whether the prostration of recitation is obligatory, although its being prescribed is a matter of consensus. Recitation is the occasion for the prostration of recitation, which therefore follows it. Since a person without ablution may recite, it follows all the more strongly that he may prostrate, for recitation is greater than the prostration of recitation alone. The polytheists prostrated even though they were not reciting the Quran. Moreover, the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, forbade reciting the Quran while bowing or prostrating. It is thus clear that reciting the Quran is superior to being in this posture.

As for his statement:

“The closest a servant is to his Lord is when he is prostrating,”

this refers to actions; spoken words are not included in it.

A distinction must also be drawn between what brings one closest and what is most virtuous: